Archive for September 12th, 2018

‘Just when I thought I have read all there is to read about HIV and AIDS, here comes a book that takes an absolutely different [approach] to the subject. It does not end there, it goes on to challenge the patriarchy that sometimes parades itself as culture and how damaging it can be sometimes in African marriages.’ – Bayanda Mzoneli, Out Spoken

The Five Firm Friends – Edith, Cordelia, Amanda, Doris and Beauty – are five sassy career women who confront life head-on. But when Beauty suddenly becomes ill and, after six short weeks, passes away, their world is thrown into confusion. On her death bed Beauty begs Amanda to promise her one thing – that she and the rest of the FFF will not waste their lives as she has done. All because of an unfaithful husband … ‘Ukhule,’ she begs of Amanda. ‘May you live a long life, and may you become old.’

Beauty’s Gift is a moving tale of how four women decide to change their own fate as well as the lives of those closest to them.

This is Sindiwe Magona at her very best – writing about social issues, and not keeping quiet. Speak up, she says to women in Africa. Stand up, and take control of your lives.

Magona has also published more than 130 children’s books – several of them in all eleven languages. Magona has received numerous literary awards as well as awards in recognition of her work around women’s issues, the plight of children, and the fight against apartheid and racism. In April 2018, she received an honorary doctorate from Rhodes University. Magona lives and works in Cape Town.